Which sequence correctly lists the phases of mitosis in order (excluding interphase and cytokinesis)?

• A. Prophase → Anaphase → Metaphase → Telophase
• B. Telophase → Metaphase → Prophase → Anaphase
• C. Prophase → Metaphase → Anaphase → Telophase
• D. Metaphase → Prophase → Telophase → Anaphase

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that mitosis is the process of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells, and it consists of four main phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.
2. Understand the order of these phases: first, Prophase occurs where chromosomes condense and the mitotic spindle begins to form.
3. Next is Metaphase, where chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plate (the metaphase plate).
4. Then comes Anaphase, during which sister chromatids are pulled apart toward opposite poles of the cell.
5. Finally, Telophase occurs, where the chromosomes decondense and nuclear envelopes reform around the two sets of chromosomes, completing mitosis before cytokinesis.